WHITE HOUSE ISSUES PRESIDENTIAL PROCLAMATION DECLARING THE 60TH ANNUAL OBSERVANCE OF THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

COLORADO SPRINGS, COLORADO (April 29, 2011) – Earlier today, the White House released President Barack Obama’s Presidential Proclamation marking the 60th annual observance of the National Day of Prayer, which will take place on Thursday, May 5th. In his proclamation, Barack Obama recognizes the important role that prayer has played in the United States, saying, “Throughout our history, Americans have turned to prayer for strength, inspiration, and solidarity. Prayer has played an important role in the American story and in shaping our Nation’s leaders.”

The 2011 National Day of Prayer has special significance due to a recent court ruling by a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals, which affirmed the constitutionality of the law requiring the President to proclaim a National Day of Prayer each year. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit, based in Chicago, ruled 3-0 that the Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) and its plaintiffs do not have standing to continue their challenge of the 1952 congressional act declaring an annual National Day of Prayer.

Michael Calhoun, Director of Communications for the National Day of Prayer (NDP) Task Force said, “Since the days of our founding fathers, prayer has been an indispensible part of our heritage. We must remain faithful in

our commitment to intercede on behalf of our nation, and its leaders, especially at this challenging time.”

Millions will answer the call to prayer on May 5th and organized events will be held in thousands of public venues where citizens will unite in prayer for America and its leadership. This year’s theme, “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God,” is based on Psalm 91:2, which states, “I will say of the Lord, He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” To learn more, or to find a National Day of Prayer event in your community, visit www.NationalDayofPrayer.org .

About the National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer tradition predates the founding of the United States of America, evidenced by the Continental Congress’ proclamation in 1775 setting aside a day of prayer. In 1952, Congress established an annual day of prayer and, in 1988, that law was amended, designating the National Day of Prayer as the first Thursday in May.

Harpeth Baptist Church will be at the UMC in Kingston Springs noon gathering.